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Biomechanics, or the study of mechanics in biological organisms such as humans, plays an important part in podiatry. Understanding the mechanics of the foot allows podiatrists to understand injuries, make proper diagnoses, and provide treatment strategies. For those who have foot injuries, podiatrists understanding the biomechanics of the feet let's them know if the injury is caused from impact, movement, or other variables. With the exact cause known, podiatrists can offer a number of solutions, such as orthotics, keeping pressure off the foot, or other methods to treat the condition. Biomechanics allows podiatrists to get a better understanding of our feet and how they work.

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics
- Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
- In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in San Antonio, Floresville, and Kenedy, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Chicago Bulls guard, Cameron Payne, recently underwent surgery to repair his broken right foot. Payne fractured the fifth metatarsal on the same foot that he broke during the 2015-2016 season. He will have to wear a splint for about a week, followed by a boot for about two months. Payne is expected to be out for a total of three to four months. Even worse for Payne, the Bulls have questioned whether he is even good enough for the NBA after playing in the second practice.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. Celeste M. Borchers of Lone Star Podiatry & Surgery. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar Fasciosis

Achilles Tendinitis

Achilles Tendon Rupture

Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in San Antonio, Floresville, and Kenedy, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Choosing the right kind of footwear for women can be hard. High heels can exacerbate a number of foot related issues such as bunions, plantar fasciitis, and ingrown toenails. Flats, on the other hand, don’t provide enough support for the foot. Knowing what to look for in a shoe can save you from a number of foot problems. Throughout the day, your feet tend to increase in size; with this in mind, it is recommended to buy shoes later in the day when they are largest. If a pair of shoes you want don’t offer arch support, try orthotic inserts to make them more comfortable and appropriate for your feet. Knowing what shoes to wear for specific occasions is important. Athletic shoes generally provide good comfort and support and are a good choice for everyday activities. When wearing high heels or flats, try not to wear them for more than two hours. Finally, make sure that the shoes you purchase aren’t too pointy for the toes. Shoes that allow the toes to wiggle around are recommended.

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.

Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.

Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.

Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.

If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of one of our offices located in San Antonio, Floresville, and Kenedy, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Children have delicate feet that are still developing as they get older. Therefore, it is up to parents to make sure that their children’s feet are healthy. There are some things a parent can do or be on the lookout for. When it comes to footwear, parents should check their children’s shoes frequently to see if they properly fit. When it comes time that your children want to get pedicures, make sure that the salon they visit is clean. This will prevent infections of the foot or fungus. Flat feet, ingrown toenails, and warts are not uncommon among children but can be taken care of. If you see anything abnormal with your child’s feet, see a podiatrist who can diagnose them.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Celeste M. Borchers of Lone Star Podiatry & Surgery. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in San Antonio, Floresville, and Kenedy, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

It’s important to exercise so that you keep your body healthy. Yet it’s not uncommon to get foot cramps while we exercise, especially barefooted. Most times this is normal and stems from overuse and underdeveloped muscles in the foot. To help prevent foot cramps, make sure you are properly hydrated. Stretching your feet before the workout can also help. If you are wearing shoes, make sure your shoes fit well and aren’t worn out. Custom made orthotics may be necessary for some people. When a foot cramp does develop, stop exercising and massage and stretch the area. If you experience foot cramps often or suffer from bad pain, something could be wrong. You might want to see a podiatrist who can diagnose your symptoms and provide treatment.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Celeste M. Borchers from Lone Star Podiatry & Surgery. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with yOur doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual.

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of one of our offices located San Antonio, Floresville, and Kenedy, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, similar to carpal tunnel in the wrist, is caused by pressure on the tarsal tunnel, the tunnel which contains tendons and the tibial nerve in your foot. This can create burning, aching, and other painful sensations. Causes of tarsal tunnel syndrome include athletic activity or exercise and sometimes even flat feet. Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be diagnosed by a podiatrist, who can offer a number of treatments to relieve your pain. It is best to seek out a podiatrist soon, for the longer the nerve is under pressure, the more likely it will take longer and be harder to heal.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Celeste M. Borchers of Lone Star Podiatry & Surgery. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
- Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
- At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
- The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
- If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in San Antonio, Floresville, and Kenedy, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

It is very possible for fungal infections on the feet to be misdiagnosed. Approximately half the people who report signs of toenail fungus don’t actually have it. Instead, these people often have similar conditions such as psoriasis, pityriasis rosea, or maybe even skin lymphoma. Nevertheless, you should see your podiatrist if you suspect something is wrong with your feet instead of making the mistake of misdiagnosing yourself. When you see your doctor, he may want to send a sample of your toenail to a lab in order to properly diagnose your condition. If it is confirmed that you have a toenail fungus, you may be prescribed oral medication for treatment.

Toenail fungus is a problem which affects many people and is hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating toenail fungus.

Antibiotics & Treatments

Lamisil – The most commonly effective treatment for toenail fungus. It is available as an antibiotic: Terbinafine tablet and cream. Terbinafine is a chemical component which kills fungal growth on the body. Applying regular doses will gradually kill the fungal growth. It is important to keep the area clean.

Talcum powder – Applying powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

Alternative Treatments

There are surgical procedures that are available for toenail fungus. Some people would prefer the immediate and quick removal of toenail fungus through laser surgery. Consult with yOur doctor about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in San Antonio, Floresville, and Kenedy, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Podiatrists are known for treating and diagnosing conditions in the foot and ankle. In order to become a podiatrist, one has to complete four years of training in podiatry school and three years of hospital training. Some podiatrists specialize in certain areas such as pediatrics, sports injuries, wound care, and diabetic care. It is possible for podiatrists to earn board certification by undergoing advanced training and taking an exam. The two boards that are able to certify podiatrists are the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery and the American Board of Podiatric Medicine.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact Dr. Celeste M. Borchers from Lone Star Podiatry & Surgery. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

Physical therapy

Drugs

Orthotic inserts or soles

Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in San Antonio, Floresville, and Kenedy, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

You may encounter a lot of different foot problems if your place of work requires you to frequently be on your feet. The two most common causes of foot injuries in the workplace are improper footwear and the flooring you may be standing on. Concrete floors are notorious for causing discomfort in those who have to stand on them for long periods of time. If your job allows you to, it is recommended that you use a cushioned mat to help prevent your feet from becoming fatigued. If you believe your footwear is the source of your foot pain on the job, you should opt for a shoe that fits you properly. You should also make sure that the socks you are wearing are not too tight on your feet, since this can lead to toe cramping.

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in San Antonio, Floresville, and Kenedy, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Orlando City cornerback Tommy Redding recently went to receive a PRP treatment for his plantar fasciitis pain. The treatment is performed by taking the patient’s blood and then separating the platelets using a centrifuge. The platelet rich plasma (PRP), which contains growth factors that expedite the body’s healing process, are injected into the patient’s body at the injured area. Less than a week after receiving the treatment, Redding said that he was feeling well and that he had no more pain.

Platelet Rich Plasma, or PRP, is blood taken from a patient and spun in a centrifuge, concentrating the amount of platelets. The plasma is then re-injected into the site of injury or damage, assisting the body in repairing damage to muscles, tendons, ligaments, and tissue. PRP helps the body speed up its healing process.

Uses of PRP

Injuries affecting the foot sometimes don’t heal properly because of poor blood circulation. The healing time slows down and recovery time is affected by poor blood supply. PRP injections will speed up recovery and resolve this issue.

Treatment

PRP is the first regenerative treatment for damaged muscles, tendons, and ligaments. No surgery needed. It is only applied with an insertion of a needle.

Ultrasound – An ultrasound is needed for proper placement of the platelets.

Injection – When the first injection is received, the patient will return to the doctor in about 2 to 3 weeks and monitor the recovery process.

Recovery time – Some people respond to treatments differently. Therefore, depending on your condition, the doctor will make any remaining decisions on how many more injections are needed, or if any additional ones are even required.

Benefits

One may be able to avoid major surgery, and recovery time will be cut down. PRP injections also avoid creating scar tissue and damage to the area. Risks are also very low using PRP as a treatment. There is no risk of rejection, contracting a disease from using another person’s blood, or infection.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in San Antonio, Floresville, and Kenedy, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.